Hardware wallets are physical devices that enable you store sensitive private key information on a device that isn’t usually linked to the internet. Unlike hot wallets, which are often user-friendly and connected to the internet, hardware wallets, also known as cold wallets, are not. Nevertheless, hot wallets—web-based, mobile, and desktop wallets are a few examples—are susceptible to internet attacks.

Cold wallets cost more than hot wallets, in part because you’re buying an actual, physical product. When you’re comparing crypto wallets, you may want to consider details such as price and security measures. If you also use a hot wallet, you should check to make sure the hardware you’re considering will work with your software wallet.

We examine six of the best hardware wallets available right now in the list below.

Ledger

Among the most well-known brands in cryptocurrency wallets is Ledger. Ledger can be purchased for between $80 and $200, and it is compatible with a wide variety of well-known software wallets. Your private keys are visible only to you on the Ledger Nano Wallets thanks to the OLED screen. It cannot be replicated, nor is it accessible via a personal computer. Your private keys are now securely stored on the gadget for only your eyes to see.

Ledger features a dedicated desktop app, a well-received mobile app, and its developers are now working on a browser extension. Ledger also offers a collection of user-educational materials and two-factor authentication.

Trezor

Trezor offers some of the highest-end hardware available in crypto storage. While its entry-level model (the Tezor Model One) costs around $60. Other models are the Trezor Safe 3 ($79) and the Trezor Safe 5 which goes for $169, all prices as listed on the website. Trezor features a minimalistic design, clean UI, and built-in display that shows you all the information you need to confirm a transaction. Moreover, it also has a robust security system that includes a pin code and a recovery seed.

It has integrations with other crypto firms such as Exodus, though it also provides built-in services such as staking and crypto purchases through its software products. It has a desktop offering, as well as a mobile app (Trezor Suite Lite) for Apple and Android.  

BitKey

Owning and managing bitcoin is made simple and safe using BitKey. It is a hardware tool, a mobile app, and a collection of recovery tools enabling easy, safe self-custody. Customers of BitKey now have even more options when it comes to purchasing bitcoin in their preferred way thanks to MoonPay’s integration with well-known payment processors like bank transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and debit and credit cards. Bitkey customers can acquire bitcoin using Coinbase, Cash App, and MoonPay.

Bitkey recovery tools help you recover your bitcoin if you lose your phone, hardware, or both, without needing a seed phrase. Use the app to send, receive, and transfer bitcoin safely on the go. For added protection, you can set a daily spending limit on your phone.

ColdCard

ColdCard is a Bitcoin-only hardware wallet that is easy to use, ultra-secure and affordable. It comes with verifiable source code that is easy to back up via an encrypted microSD card. Your private key is stored in a dedicated security chip. MicroPython software design allows you to make changes. Coldcard’s features include a USB-C connector, no restrictions on Bitcoin transaction size, increased security with an extra secure element, NFC integration, a slide cover, a USB virtual disk mode, and an extensive ‘Trick PIN’ optionality.

KeepKey

KeepKey is a crypto hardware wallet made and sold by ShapeShift, a crypto exchange based in Switzerland but operated in Denver, United States. The wallet, which costs $49 with support for more than 40 different crypto assets, also prides itself in not having an operating system, making it malware- and virus-proof.

Owners of KeepKey wallets can link it to web3 apps like Uniswap.

SafePal

SafePal is a hybrid wallet that combines online and offline features. It uses a hardware device, starting at about $50, to store your cryptocurrency. The SafePal software products, which include a mobile application and browser extension that enable services like buying, selling, and trading, can then be used with that device.

Because hardware wallets keep your cryptocurrency private keys offline, they are thought to be the safest wallet kinds. They also make it simple for you to track your balance and conduct transactions. These wallets are rising in popularity because to the expanding range of supported cryptocurrencies and the heightened emphasis on security.